ShopTalk Forums | Aircooled VW Tech & Restoration Help

dave, perhaps i mis repersented what i was trying to say but i agree with you that upgrading to better brake components will not let you stop quicker. now the side effects of better controll through newer components (not worn out 30 y/o junk) may help you stop quicker as a secondary effect but that should not really be included in the context of this discussion.

however, i think you do understand what i was trying to get across.

and a larger caliper will not steal any brake pressure as they are connected by a banjo fitting which gives_equl_pressure to the calipers reguardless of weither its a 320i or one off a dirtbike.. also, not only is the piston bigger in the 320i but the pad is also alot bigger, and extends to the egde of the rotor eliminating the ugly rust ring so many rotors have. i like that aspect.

[This message has been edited by porsche_914_freak (edited 11-20-2002).]

It isn't stealing the pressure, it is simply working at a different pressure level. In effect, the "gearing" between your foot and the brake pads has changed. I don't think your test showed anything other than that the calipers are different.

--DD

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1974 VW-Porsche 914 2.0 (Type IV powered!)

Pelican Parts' 914 Tech Geek http://www.pelicanparts.com

If you want to keep the stock 4 bolt wheels, then the BMW 320i front upgrade is going to be the most effective way for the $$ to upgrade your 30 year old brake system.
Do yourself a favor and get a set of 320i calipers (new or rebuilt) for the front, DOT approved SS brake lines, a 19mm master cylinder, new high quality brake pads all around, and remove the rear brake bias valve and install a "T" fitting. While your at it rebuild the pedal cluster with new bronze bushings. You should see a night and day difference in the braking. You will get more brake up front and full pressure to the rear so you have increased braking performance all the way around. Just to let you know before others step in and warn you about replacing the rear bias with a "T" fitting....It will not lock the rear wheels first, my front wheels will always lock up first. Do some research and ask others who have done the conversion. I have converted four 914's with no complaints.